Ever since she earned her breakthrough with her debut performance in Léon: The Professional, Natalie Portman has been acing her game as tremendously as ever, going on even to become a part of massive mammoth franchises like the Star Wars and the Marvel Cinematic Universe. But in Sw, she held one of the lead roles in the prequel trilogy, which, unfortunately, didn’t turn out well.
Natalie Portman. | Credit: Jacque fresco/Wikimedia Commons.
Although she did an incredible job at nailing it as her character Padmé Amidala on the big screens, the trilogy still went on to become one of the most despised ones from the entire saga. That said, Portman does not want her kids to watch her in those Sw films. However, her reasoning behind this is different and is along the lines of something that truly left many fans heartbroken.
Natalie Portman’s Star Wars Trilogy is...
Natalie Portman. | Credit: Jacque fresco/Wikimedia Commons.
Although she did an incredible job at nailing it as her character Padmé Amidala on the big screens, the trilogy still went on to become one of the most despised ones from the entire saga. That said, Portman does not want her kids to watch her in those Sw films. However, her reasoning behind this is different and is along the lines of something that truly left many fans heartbroken.
Natalie Portman’s Star Wars Trilogy is...
- 6/11/2024
- by Mahin Sultan
- FandomWire
10. Léon: The Professional (1994)
Among the most famous tales of revenge is the story of little girl Mathilda and professional hitman Léon. Their friendship is unique as it’s just as tender as it is cruel: the killer cares about the girl and teaches her his craft, but their ultimate goal is avenging her parents. Together, they go on a bloody rampage against the culprits. Watch Léon: The Professional on Netflix and Apple TV.
9. Gladiator (2000)
A fall from grace is reason enough to proclaim vengeance, but family’s murder? A brilliant Roman general is betrayed by his Emperor who kills his loved ones and sends the warrior into slavery. The general’s plan is simple and ruthless: rising through the ranks as a gladiator, he’ll reach the top and kill the Emperor himself.
Watch Gladiator on Netflix and Prime Video.
8. The Count of Monte Cristo (2002)
Once a simple man preparing to marry his beloved,...
Among the most famous tales of revenge is the story of little girl Mathilda and professional hitman Léon. Their friendship is unique as it’s just as tender as it is cruel: the killer cares about the girl and teaches her his craft, but their ultimate goal is avenging her parents. Together, they go on a bloody rampage against the culprits. Watch Léon: The Professional on Netflix and Apple TV.
9. Gladiator (2000)
A fall from grace is reason enough to proclaim vengeance, but family’s murder? A brilliant Roman general is betrayed by his Emperor who kills his loved ones and sends the warrior into slavery. The general’s plan is simple and ruthless: rising through the ranks as a gladiator, he’ll reach the top and kill the Emperor himself.
Watch Gladiator on Netflix and Prime Video.
8. The Count of Monte Cristo (2002)
Once a simple man preparing to marry his beloved,...
- 6/10/2024
- by dean-black@startefacts.com (Dean Black)
- STartefacts.com
What are the greatest action movies of all time? It’s a controversial question, isn’t it? Any time any publication or site puts out a new list of what they consider the best action movies of all time, it can’t help but generate a ton of controversy. Nevertheless, we here at JoBlo have decided to throw our hats into the ring with a list we really hope generates some nostalgia among our viewers but also encourages them to seek out the movies on this list that they may not have seen. But first, some may wonder where superhero movies are on this list. Given how broad that genre is, we decided to stick to old-school action, so we have left them off the list, as they deserve their own ranking. There are also a few absences from the list, notably some Jackie Chan films (like Police Story), with...
- 6/4/2024
- by Chris Bumbray
- JoBlo.com
As one of the most commercially successful directors in movie history, Luc Besson made his name known all around the world. However, even if you’re a fan of his works, you may have missed his thriller that was a sensation back in 1990.
Moreover, it presented a new type of a female leading character that influenced not only other filmmakers, but also Besson’s Leon (1994) and The Fifth Element (1997).
The film’s plot revolves around a reckless junkie whose life is resolved, but rather in a bad way. She gets caught by the police during a robbery, but instead of letting her die in jail they remove her from it and make her an offer she can’t refuse.
The woman is forced to become an assassin and then gradually proves to be extremely talented at it. However, when she starts this career, she finds it tough to balance between...
Moreover, it presented a new type of a female leading character that influenced not only other filmmakers, but also Besson’s Leon (1994) and The Fifth Element (1997).
The film’s plot revolves around a reckless junkie whose life is resolved, but rather in a bad way. She gets caught by the police during a robbery, but instead of letting her die in jail they remove her from it and make her an offer she can’t refuse.
The woman is forced to become an assassin and then gradually proves to be extremely talented at it. However, when she starts this career, she finds it tough to balance between...
- 6/4/2024
- by info@startefacts.com (Ava Raxa)
- STartefacts.com
Natalie Portman is an Oscar-winning actress who has been quite prolific throughout her three decade film career, but how many of her titles remain classics? Let’s take a look back at 16 of Portman’s greatest movies, ranked worst to best.
Portman made her acting debut when she was just 13-years-old with “Leon: The Professional” (1994), which cast her as a teenager teaming up with a hitman (Jean Reno) to avenge her family’s murder.
Her first Oscar nomination came just 10 years later: Best Supporting Actress for “Closer” (2004). The role of Alice, a stripper dating a writer (Jude Law) in love with another woman (Julia Roberts), brought her a Golden Globe victory, though the Academy went with Cate Blanchett (“The Aviator”) instead.
Portman didn’t go Oscar-less for too long. Just six years later, she reaped a Best Actress victory for playing an obsessive ballerina in the psychological thriller “Black Swan...
Portman made her acting debut when she was just 13-years-old with “Leon: The Professional” (1994), which cast her as a teenager teaming up with a hitman (Jean Reno) to avenge her family’s murder.
Her first Oscar nomination came just 10 years later: Best Supporting Actress for “Closer” (2004). The role of Alice, a stripper dating a writer (Jude Law) in love with another woman (Julia Roberts), brought her a Golden Globe victory, though the Academy went with Cate Blanchett (“The Aviator”) instead.
Portman didn’t go Oscar-less for too long. Just six years later, she reaped a Best Actress victory for playing an obsessive ballerina in the psychological thriller “Black Swan...
- 5/31/2024
- by Zach Laws and Chris Beachum
- Gold Derby
A year and a half has gone by since A24 announced that they were re-teaming with Halina Reijn, the director of their slasher satire Bodies Bodies Bodies, on a erotic thriller called Babygirl, with Nicole Kidman (Being the Ricardos), Antonio Banderas (Desperado), Harris Dickinson (The Iron Claw), Sophie Wilde (Talk to Me), and Jean Reno (Léon: The Professional) set to star in the film. Now they have revealed (via Deadline) that they’re bringing Babygirl to theatres just in time for Christmas viewings, giving it a December 20th release date. That’s the same weekend Disney is releasing Mufasa, Paramount is releasing Sonic the Hedgehog 3, and Angel Studios is releasing the faith-based post-apocalyptic film Homestead.
Christmas seems like an odd time to release an erotic thriller, but maybe this counter-programming will work out for A24. While families are taking the kids to Mufasa and Sonic and the devout see Homestead,...
Christmas seems like an odd time to release an erotic thriller, but maybe this counter-programming will work out for A24. While families are taking the kids to Mufasa and Sonic and the devout see Homestead,...
- 5/31/2024
- by Cody Hamman
- JoBlo.com
Sneak Peek actresss Natalie Portman (“Lady In The Lake”) posing for the May 2024 issue of “L’Officiel” magazine, wearing Dior, Armani, Stella McCartney and a whole lot more, photographed by Ellen von Unwerth:
Portman began her acting career at age twelve, when she starred in "Léon: The Professional" (1994).
While in high school, she made her Broadway debut in a 1998 production of "The Diary of a Young Girl" then gained international recognition starring as 'Padmé Amidala' in "Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace" (1999).
From 1999 to 2003, Portman attended Harvard University, graduating with a bachelor's degree in psychology, while continuing to act in the "Star Wars" prequel trilogy and in The Public Theater's 2001 revival of Anton Chekhov's play "The Seagull".
In 2004, Portman was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress and won a Golden Globe Award for the romantic drama "Closer".
Portman's career progressed with her...
Portman began her acting career at age twelve, when she starred in "Léon: The Professional" (1994).
While in high school, she made her Broadway debut in a 1998 production of "The Diary of a Young Girl" then gained international recognition starring as 'Padmé Amidala' in "Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace" (1999).
From 1999 to 2003, Portman attended Harvard University, graduating with a bachelor's degree in psychology, while continuing to act in the "Star Wars" prequel trilogy and in The Public Theater's 2001 revival of Anton Chekhov's play "The Seagull".
In 2004, Portman was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress and won a Golden Globe Award for the romantic drama "Closer".
Portman's career progressed with her...
- 5/22/2024
- by Unknown
- SneakPeek
Natalie Portman is one of the most recognized faces in the world. Such an achievement does not come easy, and it is safe to assume that she worked very hard to get to where she is today. The actress has been a part of some extremely successful projects, having important roles in two of the biggest franchises of all time and having three Oscar nominations to her name.
Natalie Portman in Black Swan (2010)
However, she once went back to her roots and talked about the film that started it all for her; Léon: The Profession. The actress revealed that she does not think that the movie could be released in today’s time, and such a sentiment is not surprising.
Natalie Portman Does Not Think Léon: The Professional Can Be Made Today
Natalie Portman gave an interview with Empire, via Business Standard, where she reminisced on her past works, specifically...
Natalie Portman in Black Swan (2010)
However, she once went back to her roots and talked about the film that started it all for her; Léon: The Profession. The actress revealed that she does not think that the movie could be released in today’s time, and such a sentiment is not surprising.
Natalie Portman Does Not Think Léon: The Professional Can Be Made Today
Natalie Portman gave an interview with Empire, via Business Standard, where she reminisced on her past works, specifically...
- 5/8/2024
- by Ananya Godboley
- FandomWire
The Oscar-winning actress Natalie Portman captivated audiences with her debut in the 1994 film Léon: The Professional. And her portrayal of Padmé Amidala in the prequel trilogy propelled her to international stardom. The actress has since become one of the industry’s top talents. While her performance in the galactic saga is widely recognized, it isn’t universally lauded as her finest work.
Natalie Portman as Padmé Amidala in Star Wars franchise | Credit: Lucasfilm
In the prequel trilogy of the Skywalker Saga, Portman’s portrayal of the queen of Naboo garnered mixed reviews, with some critics expressing reservations about her performance. And the actress’ approach to reprising her role in the 2002 film Attack of the Clones could potentially reinforce public perceptions of her performance.
Natalie Portman Revealed Her Approach to Her Star Wars Character
After making her debut as Padmè Amidala in The Phantom Menace, Natalie Portman reprised her role alongside...
Natalie Portman as Padmé Amidala in Star Wars franchise | Credit: Lucasfilm
In the prequel trilogy of the Skywalker Saga, Portman’s portrayal of the queen of Naboo garnered mixed reviews, with some critics expressing reservations about her performance. And the actress’ approach to reprising her role in the 2002 film Attack of the Clones could potentially reinforce public perceptions of her performance.
Natalie Portman Revealed Her Approach to Her Star Wars Character
After making her debut as Padmè Amidala in The Phantom Menace, Natalie Portman reprised her role alongside...
- 5/7/2024
- by Laxmi Rajput
- FandomWire
During the production of Episode II of the galactic saga, Attack of the Clones, a weird tension brewed behind the scenes while filming a sequence that required Natalie Portman and Hayden Christensen to improvise. Both actors joined the beloved franchise as Padmé Amidala and Anakin Skywalker in the prequel trilogy, who initially meet on The Phantom Menace and eventually fall in love in Star Wars: Episode II.
Natalie Portman and Hayden Christensen in Star Wars: Episode II | Credit: Lucasfilm
However, while filming one of the scenes for the 2002 film, the star cast found themselves navigating through an unexpected discomfort after Anakin’s Jedi abilities were incorporated into the scene.
Natalie Portman Recalled Filming the Awkward Attack of the Clones Scene
Attack of the Clones follows Jedi Knights Obi-Wan Kenobi and Anakin Skywalker as they investigate a separatist conspiracy, leading to the revelation of a secret clone army and the outbreak of the Clone Wars.
Natalie Portman and Hayden Christensen in Star Wars: Episode II | Credit: Lucasfilm
However, while filming one of the scenes for the 2002 film, the star cast found themselves navigating through an unexpected discomfort after Anakin’s Jedi abilities were incorporated into the scene.
Natalie Portman Recalled Filming the Awkward Attack of the Clones Scene
Attack of the Clones follows Jedi Knights Obi-Wan Kenobi and Anakin Skywalker as they investigate a separatist conspiracy, leading to the revelation of a secret clone army and the outbreak of the Clone Wars.
- 5/6/2024
- by Laxmi Rajput
- FandomWire
It’s quite rare for actors to grow up on screen, but Farida Jalal is one such actor who has portrayed an array of characters in the space of the hero’s sister, a mother, and now a grandmother.
While Hollywood has Leonardo DiCaprio, who started his career at the age of 17, India has Rishi Kapoor, Kamal Haasan, Sridevi, and Farida Jalal. All of their careers are textbooks in cinematic longevity.
Farida started her journey at 17 with the film ‘Taqdeer’, a role offered to her by Tarachand Barjatya, grandfather of Sooraj Barjatya. How she was offered her first role has a story of its own, something that rarely happens to artistes. She was a part of the United Film Producers Talent Hunt, which she went on to win, where her co-finalist happened to be the first superstar of Hindi cinema, Rajesh Khanna.
Tarachand was sitting in the audience while Kaka...
While Hollywood has Leonardo DiCaprio, who started his career at the age of 17, India has Rishi Kapoor, Kamal Haasan, Sridevi, and Farida Jalal. All of their careers are textbooks in cinematic longevity.
Farida started her journey at 17 with the film ‘Taqdeer’, a role offered to her by Tarachand Barjatya, grandfather of Sooraj Barjatya. How she was offered her first role has a story of its own, something that rarely happens to artistes. She was a part of the United Film Producers Talent Hunt, which she went on to win, where her co-finalist happened to be the first superstar of Hindi cinema, Rajesh Khanna.
Tarachand was sitting in the audience while Kaka...
- 5/2/2024
- by Agency News Desk
- GlamSham
In 1990, Luc Besson's famous action film Nikita hit theaters. The movie about a street criminal turned secret agent was a huge success in France and around the world.
There is an opinion that the director has been doing nothing but making different versions of Nikita all his life, distracted from time to time by purely commercial projects.
The central character of his universe is a female fighter, a cold-blooded killer with a tragic personal history. Viewers saw a similar type in Leon: The Professional, The Fifth Element, Lucy with Scarlett Johansson in the main role, and Anna – another spy drama that recently got a second life thanks to its popularity on Netflix.
However, when talking about Nikita and its imitators, many forget about the cult series that debuted in 1997 and ran for five seasons – La Femme Nikita. And just recently, Redditors remembered the best spy show of the 1990s.
There is an opinion that the director has been doing nothing but making different versions of Nikita all his life, distracted from time to time by purely commercial projects.
The central character of his universe is a female fighter, a cold-blooded killer with a tragic personal history. Viewers saw a similar type in Leon: The Professional, The Fifth Element, Lucy with Scarlett Johansson in the main role, and Anna – another spy drama that recently got a second life thanks to its popularity on Netflix.
However, when talking about Nikita and its imitators, many forget about the cult series that debuted in 1997 and ran for five seasons – La Femme Nikita. And just recently, Redditors remembered the best spy show of the 1990s.
- 4/28/2024
- by zoe-wallace@startefacts.com (Zoe Wallace)
- STartefacts.com
10. John and Jane Smith from Mr. & Mrs. Smith (2005)
We don’t typically consider married couples to be menacing, but there’s an exception to every rule — and John and Jane Smith are definitely one. From trying to kill each other at their house to dispatching countless assassins sent after them while working together, the Smiths are a force to be reckoned with — or, better, not even touched.
9. Chris Wolff from The Accountant (2016)
They often say that the most dangerous people are the ones who patiently try to avoid the fight, and Chris Wolff is the ultimate proof of that. He’s not excited about killing people, but when dookie hits the fan, he does what has to be done to succeed. The scariest part about Wolff is that he’s always over-prepared for any scenario.
8. Jules Winnfield from Pulp Fiction (1994)
Following up on “the most dangerous people are,” we have Jules Winnfield.
We don’t typically consider married couples to be menacing, but there’s an exception to every rule — and John and Jane Smith are definitely one. From trying to kill each other at their house to dispatching countless assassins sent after them while working together, the Smiths are a force to be reckoned with — or, better, not even touched.
9. Chris Wolff from The Accountant (2016)
They often say that the most dangerous people are the ones who patiently try to avoid the fight, and Chris Wolff is the ultimate proof of that. He’s not excited about killing people, but when dookie hits the fan, he does what has to be done to succeed. The scariest part about Wolff is that he’s always over-prepared for any scenario.
8. Jules Winnfield from Pulp Fiction (1994)
Following up on “the most dangerous people are,” we have Jules Winnfield.
- 4/26/2024
- by dean-black@startefacts.com (Dean Black)
- STartefacts.com
Sneak Peek actresss Natalie Portman (“Lady In The Lake”) posing for the May 2024 issue of “L’Officiel” magazine, wearing Dior, Armani, Stella McCartney and a whole lot more, photographed by Ellen von Unwerth:
Portman began her acting career at age twelve, when she starred in "Léon: The Professional" (1994).
While in high school, she made her Broadway debut in a 1998 production of "The Diary of a Young Girl" then gained international recognition starring as 'Padmé Amidala' in "Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace" (1999).
From 1999 to 2003, Portman attended Harvard University, graduating with a bachelor's degree in psychology, while continuing to act in the "Star Wars" prequel trilogy and in The Public Theater's 2001 revival of Anton Chekhov's play "The Seagull".
In 2004, Portman was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress and won a Golden Globe Award for the romantic drama "Closer".
Portman's career progressed with her...
Portman began her acting career at age twelve, when she starred in "Léon: The Professional" (1994).
While in high school, she made her Broadway debut in a 1998 production of "The Diary of a Young Girl" then gained international recognition starring as 'Padmé Amidala' in "Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace" (1999).
From 1999 to 2003, Portman attended Harvard University, graduating with a bachelor's degree in psychology, while continuing to act in the "Star Wars" prequel trilogy and in The Public Theater's 2001 revival of Anton Chekhov's play "The Seagull".
In 2004, Portman was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress and won a Golden Globe Award for the romantic drama "Closer".
Portman's career progressed with her...
- 4/25/2024
- by Unknown
- SneakPeek
‘Kung Fu Panda 4’ retained its lead at the top of the South Korean box office on what was the quietest cinema-going weekend in more than a year.
The animated franchise movie held up reasonably. It maintained a nearly 44% market share, dropped only 32% week-on-week and was untroubled by competition from new releases. The film earned $1.91 million between Friday and Sunday, according to data from Kobis, the tracking service operated by the Korean Film Council (Kofic). After 12 days on release, “Kung Fu Panda 4” has a cumulative total of $8.48 million.
“Exhuma,” which had held the top spot for six weeks before losing it a week ago, remained in second spot. It earned $772,000 with a nearly 18% market share. Since releasing on Feb. 22, it has amassed a cumulative $82.7 million, earned from 11.8 million spectators.
While the top two films showed endurance, the overall box office market looked sickly. Across the nation’s roughly 2,500 cinemas,...
The animated franchise movie held up reasonably. It maintained a nearly 44% market share, dropped only 32% week-on-week and was untroubled by competition from new releases. The film earned $1.91 million between Friday and Sunday, according to data from Kobis, the tracking service operated by the Korean Film Council (Kofic). After 12 days on release, “Kung Fu Panda 4” has a cumulative total of $8.48 million.
“Exhuma,” which had held the top spot for six weeks before losing it a week ago, remained in second spot. It earned $772,000 with a nearly 18% market share. Since releasing on Feb. 22, it has amassed a cumulative $82.7 million, earned from 11.8 million spectators.
While the top two films showed endurance, the overall box office market looked sickly. Across the nation’s roughly 2,500 cinemas,...
- 4/22/2024
- by Patrick Frater
- Variety Film + TV
Cillian Murphy is Hollywood’s biggest star since he swept everyone away with his stunning performance in Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer and even took home an Oscar for it — but back in 2019 not everything worked out that well for him.
The actor seemingly had high hopes — and he had all the reasons for it — for one of his movies that turned out to be a big theatrical flop. Despite that, the film is somehow doing better five years later — and recently has even entered Netflix’s top.
Back in the day, French director Luc Besson made his classic come-back with an action thriller Anna. The plot follows young Russian woman Anna, an assassin pursued by CIA and Kgb agents competing with each other while Anna herself is planning to thwart their biggest ambitions, embarking on a search for personal freedom.
Anna was indeed the director’s biggest hope — with the star-studded cast including Luke Evans,...
The actor seemingly had high hopes — and he had all the reasons for it — for one of his movies that turned out to be a big theatrical flop. Despite that, the film is somehow doing better five years later — and recently has even entered Netflix’s top.
Back in the day, French director Luc Besson made his classic come-back with an action thriller Anna. The plot follows young Russian woman Anna, an assassin pursued by CIA and Kgb agents competing with each other while Anna herself is planning to thwart their biggest ambitions, embarking on a search for personal freedom.
Anna was indeed the director’s biggest hope — with the star-studded cast including Luke Evans,...
- 4/19/2024
- by benjamin-patel@startefacts.com (Benjamin Patel)
- STartefacts.com
Eli Roth turned adapting the video game “Borderlands” into a mini film school for its young star Ariana Greenblatt.
Roth had Oscar winners Cate Blanchett and Jamie Lee Curtis at his disposal in the space-set sci-fi adventure film, but it was “Barbie” breakout Greenblatt (also of “65” and “In the Heights”) who he says stole the feature. Roth called Greenblatt’s performance in his new film reminiscent of Natalie Portman’s turn in Luc Besson’s controversial crime thriller “Leon: The Professional.”
Pretty good company there.
As it turns out, “Leon: The Professional” is one of Greenblatt’s faves. The young actress (16 now, 13 when she auditioned for “Borderlands,” actually has quite the film palate considering her age. Especially now.
Roth assigned Greenblatt “My Dinner with Andre” to prepare for her “Borderlands” role — “just to fuck with her,” he added. But she dutifully watched it — and as Roth recalled, Greenblatt really dug “the dessert scene.
Roth had Oscar winners Cate Blanchett and Jamie Lee Curtis at his disposal in the space-set sci-fi adventure film, but it was “Barbie” breakout Greenblatt (also of “65” and “In the Heights”) who he says stole the feature. Roth called Greenblatt’s performance in his new film reminiscent of Natalie Portman’s turn in Luc Besson’s controversial crime thriller “Leon: The Professional.”
Pretty good company there.
As it turns out, “Leon: The Professional” is one of Greenblatt’s faves. The young actress (16 now, 13 when she auditioned for “Borderlands,” actually has quite the film palate considering her age. Especially now.
Roth assigned Greenblatt “My Dinner with Andre” to prepare for her “Borderlands” role — “just to fuck with her,” he added. But she dutifully watched it — and as Roth recalled, Greenblatt really dug “the dessert scene.
- 4/10/2024
- by Samantha Bergeson and Brian Welk
- Indiewire
Get ready for an insightful and revealing episode of “Uncensored” as Season 6 Episode 13, titled “Leon,” airs this Sunday, April 14, 2024, at 10:00 Pm on TV One. In this episode, viewers will get an exclusive look into the remarkable 40-year journey of actor Leon, renowned for his unforgettable performances in both television and film.
Leon opens up about his illustrious career, delving into his experiences portraying iconic roles in acclaimed series such as “The Temptations” and blockbuster films like “Waiting to Exhale,” “Cool Runnings,” and “The Five Heartbeats.” With candor and depth, he shares behind-the-scenes stories, challenges faced, and the impact of his work on audiences worldwide.
Through intimate interviews and captivating anecdotes, “Uncensored” offers a rare glimpse into the life and career of Leon, highlighting his contributions to entertainment and his enduring legacy in the industry. Don’t miss this captivating episode as Leon’s remarkable journey unfolds, airing Sunday at 10:00 Pm on TV One.
Leon opens up about his illustrious career, delving into his experiences portraying iconic roles in acclaimed series such as “The Temptations” and blockbuster films like “Waiting to Exhale,” “Cool Runnings,” and “The Five Heartbeats.” With candor and depth, he shares behind-the-scenes stories, challenges faced, and the impact of his work on audiences worldwide.
Through intimate interviews and captivating anecdotes, “Uncensored” offers a rare glimpse into the life and career of Leon, highlighting his contributions to entertainment and his enduring legacy in the industry. Don’t miss this captivating episode as Leon’s remarkable journey unfolds, airing Sunday at 10:00 Pm on TV One.
- 4/7/2024
- by Jules Byrd
- TV Everyday
In this week’s episode of The Discourse, host Mike DeAngelo digs into the film “DogMan” with writer/director Luc Besson (“The Fifth Element,” “Leon: The Professional,” “Valerian And The City Of A Thousand Planets.”). The film follows Doug (Caleb Landry Jones), a young, crippled, abandoned man, beaten down by a tough life who has a supernatural connection to his canine companions.
Continue reading ‘DogMan’: Luc Besson On His Divisive Dog-Eat-Dog Drama, Gary Oldman’s “Genius” & More ‘Valerian’ [The Discourse Podcast] at The Playlist.
Continue reading ‘DogMan’: Luc Besson On His Divisive Dog-Eat-Dog Drama, Gary Oldman’s “Genius” & More ‘Valerian’ [The Discourse Podcast] at The Playlist.
- 4/1/2024
- by Mike DeAngelo
- The Playlist
It’s been a tumultuous few years for French filmmaker Luc Besson, to put it mildly. But with #MeToo allegations outwardly behind him and the director seemingly exonerated, it appears to be full steam ahead for the “Fifth Element” and “Leon: The Professional” director. After a four-year absence from the screen, his latest effort is the drama “DogMan,” starring Caleb Landry Jones, about a boy bruised by life who finds his salvation through the love of his dogs.
Continue reading Luc Besson Says ‘Lucy 2’ Sequel Is News To Him & Addresses Natalie Portman’s Negative Thoughts On ‘Leon’ at The Playlist.
Continue reading Luc Besson Says ‘Lucy 2’ Sequel Is News To Him & Addresses Natalie Portman’s Negative Thoughts On ‘Leon’ at The Playlist.
- 3/29/2024
- by Edward Davis
- The Playlist
Take a look at new images of actress Natalie Portman posing for the April 2024 issue of “Marie Claire’ (Australia) magazine, photographed by Felix Cooper for Christian Dior Parfums:
Portman began her acting career at age twelve, when she starred in "Léon: The Professional" (1994). While in high school, she made her Broadway debut in a 1998 production of "The Diary of a Young Girl" then gained international recognition starring as 'Padmé Amidala' in "Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace" (1999).
From 1999 to 2003, Portman attended Harvard University, graduating with a bachelor's degree in psychology, while continuing to act in the "Star Wars" prequel trilogy and in The Public Theater's 2001 revival of Anton Chekhov's play "The Seagull". In 2004, Portman was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress and won a Golden Globe Award for the romantic drama "Closer".
Portman's career progressed with her starring roles as 'Evey Hammond' in "V for Vendetta...
Portman began her acting career at age twelve, when she starred in "Léon: The Professional" (1994). While in high school, she made her Broadway debut in a 1998 production of "The Diary of a Young Girl" then gained international recognition starring as 'Padmé Amidala' in "Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace" (1999).
From 1999 to 2003, Portman attended Harvard University, graduating with a bachelor's degree in psychology, while continuing to act in the "Star Wars" prequel trilogy and in The Public Theater's 2001 revival of Anton Chekhov's play "The Seagull". In 2004, Portman was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress and won a Golden Globe Award for the romantic drama "Closer".
Portman's career progressed with her starring roles as 'Evey Hammond' in "V for Vendetta...
- 3/19/2024
- by Unknown
- SneakPeek
[Editor’s Note: Tubefilter Charts is a weekly rankings column from Tubefilter with data provided by GospelStats. It’s exactly what it sounds like: a top number ranking of YouTube channels based on statistics collected within a given time frame. Check out all of our Tubefilter Charts with new installments every week right here.]
There were only 12 channels in this week’s U.S. Top 50 that saw their YouTube viewership decline week-over-week, but four of those channels still wound up in the top five.
Thanks to those traffic dips, the gap between this ranking’s upper echelon and the rest of the field is thinning. The #1 channel, which is far ahead of the other contenders, didn’t seem to get that memo.
Chart Toppers
Rainbow Friends Fans earned a second straight #1 finish in the U.S. Top 50. Like a lot of the channels in this chart, the leading Shorts hub gets many of its views from young YouTube users who are into gaming.
There were only 12 channels in this week’s U.S. Top 50 that saw their YouTube viewership decline week-over-week, but four of those channels still wound up in the top five.
Thanks to those traffic dips, the gap between this ranking’s upper echelon and the rest of the field is thinning. The #1 channel, which is far ahead of the other contenders, didn’t seem to get that memo.
Chart Toppers
Rainbow Friends Fans earned a second straight #1 finish in the U.S. Top 50. Like a lot of the channels in this chart, the leading Shorts hub gets many of its views from young YouTube users who are into gaming.
- 3/18/2024
- by Sam Gutelle
- Tubefilter.com
It is a testament to his acting ability that it was years before I realized that Gary Oldman is British. With an ability to nail accents, the dedication to drastically change his appearance and the talent to convey the full spectrum of emotions, Oldman is one of the most eclectic and underrated actors of our time.
Born March 21, 1958, in London, Oldman began his acting career on the British stage in 1979, and made his film debut in “Remembrance” in 1982. In 1984, he reluctantly accepted the role of punk rocker Sid Vicious in “Sid and Nancy,” a performance which garnered him critical acclaim and launched a diverse and successful career that has spanned almost four decades, and includes everything from small indie films to blockbuster franchises.
Oldman is well-known for his portrayal of some of the most memorable villains in the history of the cinema, from the campy Zorg in “The Fifth Element...
Born March 21, 1958, in London, Oldman began his acting career on the British stage in 1979, and made his film debut in “Remembrance” in 1982. In 1984, he reluctantly accepted the role of punk rocker Sid Vicious in “Sid and Nancy,” a performance which garnered him critical acclaim and launched a diverse and successful career that has spanned almost four decades, and includes everything from small indie films to blockbuster franchises.
Oldman is well-known for his portrayal of some of the most memorable villains in the history of the cinema, from the campy Zorg in “The Fifth Element...
- 3/15/2024
- by Susan Pennington, Chris Beachum and Misty Holland
- Gold Derby
Actor Austin Butler has received rave reviews for his performance as Feyd-Rautha Harkonnen in the sci-fi drama film Dune: Part Two. The much-awaited sequel to Denis Villeneuve’s Dune sees Butler deliver a truly menacing and scary antagonistic performance that not only elevates the source material but also adds a new dimension to the film.
Austin Butler in Dune: Part Two
In a recent interview, Butler discussed his work in the film. The Elvis actor revealed how he drew inspiration for the role and which actors inspired his performance the most. While Butler’s performance in the film has been compared to Heath Ledger’s Joker in The Dark Knight, there was another actor from the iconic superhero film who inspired Butler.
Austin Butler Reveals How Two The Dark Knight Actors Inspired His Dune 2 Performance Gary Oldman in The Dark Knight
Dune: Part Two has received critical acclaim and managed...
Austin Butler in Dune: Part Two
In a recent interview, Butler discussed his work in the film. The Elvis actor revealed how he drew inspiration for the role and which actors inspired his performance the most. While Butler’s performance in the film has been compared to Heath Ledger’s Joker in The Dark Knight, there was another actor from the iconic superhero film who inspired Butler.
Austin Butler Reveals How Two The Dark Knight Actors Inspired His Dune 2 Performance Gary Oldman in The Dark Knight
Dune: Part Two has received critical acclaim and managed...
- 3/9/2024
- by Pratik Handore
- FandomWire
Actress Natalie Portman has officially divorced her husband, French choreographer Benjamin Millepied.
Portman filed for divorce in July of last year after 11 years of marriage. The divorce was recently finalized in France.
Portman, 42, holds dual citizenship in the United States and Israel and is widely regarded as one of Hollywood’s leading actresses. She began her career as a child star in Luc Besson‘s thriller Leon: The Professional and went on to achieve success in blockbuster films such as Star Wars and Marvel movies, as well as independent and art-house productions.
Portman first met Millepied in 2009 while filming the psychological horror film Black Swan, where she delivered a performance that earned her the Best Actress Academy Award. Millepied not only appeared in the movie but also provided choreography for it.
The couple tied the knot in California in 2012 and have two children together: a son named Aleph, 12, and a daughter Amalia,...
Portman filed for divorce in July of last year after 11 years of marriage. The divorce was recently finalized in France.
Portman, 42, holds dual citizenship in the United States and Israel and is widely regarded as one of Hollywood’s leading actresses. She began her career as a child star in Luc Besson‘s thriller Leon: The Professional and went on to achieve success in blockbuster films such as Star Wars and Marvel movies, as well as independent and art-house productions.
Portman first met Millepied in 2009 while filming the psychological horror film Black Swan, where she delivered a performance that earned her the Best Actress Academy Award. Millepied not only appeared in the movie but also provided choreography for it.
The couple tied the knot in California in 2012 and have two children together: a son named Aleph, 12, and a daughter Amalia,...
- 3/9/2024
- by Baila Eve Zisman
- Uinterview
Austin Butler is sharing the inspiration behind his performance in Dune: Part Two!
The 32-year-old actor plays Feyd-Rautha in Denis Villeneuve‘s sequel to 2021′s Dune.
The nephew of Stellan Skarsgard‘s Baron Vladimir Harkonnen, Feyd-Rautha is a ferocious fighter who’s referred to as “psychotic” in the film by Florence Pugh‘s Princess Irulan.
In a recent interview, Austin revealed who his portrayal of the extreme character was modeled by!
Keep reading to find out more…
“I’ve always been inspired by Gary Oldman in many of his roles,” he told NME. “Léon: The Professional, or True Romance, or The Fifth Element.”
The Elvis star continued, “And you know, we’ve talked about Heath Ledger a lot, the sense of play that he had. And like I say, it’s not the specific things, but it’s more general inspiration.”
In case you missed it, Austin Butler explained how...
The 32-year-old actor plays Feyd-Rautha in Denis Villeneuve‘s sequel to 2021′s Dune.
The nephew of Stellan Skarsgard‘s Baron Vladimir Harkonnen, Feyd-Rautha is a ferocious fighter who’s referred to as “psychotic” in the film by Florence Pugh‘s Princess Irulan.
In a recent interview, Austin revealed who his portrayal of the extreme character was modeled by!
Keep reading to find out more…
“I’ve always been inspired by Gary Oldman in many of his roles,” he told NME. “Léon: The Professional, or True Romance, or The Fifth Element.”
The Elvis star continued, “And you know, we’ve talked about Heath Ledger a lot, the sense of play that he had. And like I say, it’s not the specific things, but it’s more general inspiration.”
In case you missed it, Austin Butler explained how...
- 3/9/2024
- by Just Jared
- Just Jared
Austin Butler revealed the two stars who inspired him when preparing for his role in Dune: Part Two.
The actor, who plays villain Feyd-Rautha in Denis Villeneuve’s follow-up to 2021’s Dune, recently told NME that he looked at the broad career work of Gary Oldman and Heath Ledger when doing research and getting ready for the movie.
“I’ve always been inspired by Gary Oldman in many of his roles,” Butler said. “Léon: The Professional, or True Romance, or The Fifth Element.”
The Elvis star continued, “And you know, we’ve talked about Heath Ledger a lot, the sense of play that he had. And like I say, it’s not the specific things, but it’s more general inspiration.” Ledger, who died in 2008, was known for his role as the Joker in The Dark Knight.
Dune: Part Two follows Paul Atreides (Timothée Chalamet) as he unites with Chani...
The actor, who plays villain Feyd-Rautha in Denis Villeneuve’s follow-up to 2021’s Dune, recently told NME that he looked at the broad career work of Gary Oldman and Heath Ledger when doing research and getting ready for the movie.
“I’ve always been inspired by Gary Oldman in many of his roles,” Butler said. “Léon: The Professional, or True Romance, or The Fifth Element.”
The Elvis star continued, “And you know, we’ve talked about Heath Ledger a lot, the sense of play that he had. And like I say, it’s not the specific things, but it’s more general inspiration.” Ledger, who died in 2008, was known for his role as the Joker in The Dark Knight.
Dune: Part Two follows Paul Atreides (Timothée Chalamet) as he unites with Chani...
- 3/8/2024
- by Carly Thomas
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Natalie Portman has led a star-studded career over the three decades she has been performing as an actress. In the course of it all, she has worked with A-listed actors as well as some controversial directors, and nonetheless, created some of the most awe-striking cinematic masterpieces of all time.
Natalie Portman in the Star Wars saga
One of these masterpieces of hers includes her $19 million film Léon: The Professional; the very one that granted Portman her very exciting breakthrough in the entertainment industry. And even though the director of the film Luc Besson got into much controversy over s-xual assault allegations that he later got cleared of, Natalie Portman still holds this one film quite dear to her.
Suggested“I’ve tried not to set any limits”: ‘Riverdale’ Star Charles Melton Has No Intentions of Stopping After Natalie Portman Film Makes Him a Rare Art House Heartthrob
Natalie Portman...
Natalie Portman in the Star Wars saga
One of these masterpieces of hers includes her $19 million film Léon: The Professional; the very one that granted Portman her very exciting breakthrough in the entertainment industry. And even though the director of the film Luc Besson got into much controversy over s-xual assault allegations that he later got cleared of, Natalie Portman still holds this one film quite dear to her.
Suggested“I’ve tried not to set any limits”: ‘Riverdale’ Star Charles Melton Has No Intentions of Stopping After Natalie Portman Film Makes Him a Rare Art House Heartthrob
Natalie Portman...
- 2/26/2024
- by Mahin Sultan
- FandomWire
Natalie Portman revealed on a recent episode of the “Smartless” podcast (via People) that Jodie Foster once reached out to her after she heard Portman giving a speech about being sexualized as a young actor. Foster famously skyrocketed at 12 years old when she was cast in Martin Scorsese’s “Taxi Driver” as a child sex worker. Portman, meanwhile, was 11 years old when she was cast in “Léon: The Professional,” which served as her own acting breakthrough.
“I did a speech at a Women’s March about being sexualized as a young actress, and she reached out to me after that, and we talked and it was amazing,” Portman said. “She’s still a role model.”
Portman said that she learned at a young age to project a tough exterior on film sets to avoid sexualization by potential predators.
“That kind of projection of seriousness protected me in a way,” she said.
“I did a speech at a Women’s March about being sexualized as a young actress, and she reached out to me after that, and we talked and it was amazing,” Portman said. “She’s still a role model.”
Portman said that she learned at a young age to project a tough exterior on film sets to avoid sexualization by potential predators.
“That kind of projection of seriousness protected me in a way,” she said.
- 2/26/2024
- by Zack Sharf
- Variety Film + TV
Natalie Portman is chiming into the conversation surrounding the traditional film medium in the age of social media.
The Oscar-winning actress was recently asked in an interview with Vanity Fair about the changes she has seen in Hollywood throughout the years.
“The striking thing has been the decline of film as a primary form of entertainment,” she said. “It feels much more niche now. If you ask someone my kids’ age about movie stars, they don’t know anyone compared to YouTube stars or whatever.”
Social media’s impact on mainstream movie stars has been a recent debate, especially with the rise of influencers in the 21st century. Ana de Armas said last year that she feels the “concept of a movie star” has been ruined because the “mystery is gone,” while Jennifer Anniston previously responded to a “mass-fame phenomenon” comment, saying, “It’s dying. There are no more movie stars.
The Oscar-winning actress was recently asked in an interview with Vanity Fair about the changes she has seen in Hollywood throughout the years.
“The striking thing has been the decline of film as a primary form of entertainment,” she said. “It feels much more niche now. If you ask someone my kids’ age about movie stars, they don’t know anyone compared to YouTube stars or whatever.”
Social media’s impact on mainstream movie stars has been a recent debate, especially with the rise of influencers in the 21st century. Ana de Armas said last year that she feels the “concept of a movie star” has been ruined because the “mystery is gone,” while Jennifer Anniston previously responded to a “mass-fame phenomenon” comment, saying, “It’s dying. There are no more movie stars.
- 2/22/2024
- by Carly Thomas
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Some cliche somewhere said that ‘a picture is worth a thousand words.’ This has proven to be the case for me and especially when it comes to fan art. I have always sought out great fan art and have wanted to share it with as many people as possible. “Awesome Art We’ve Found Around The Net” is the outlet for that passion. In this column, I will showcase the kick-ass artwork of some great artists, with the hopes that these artists get the attention they deserve. That’s the aim. If you have any questions or comments, or even suggestions of art or other great artists, feel free to contact me at any time at theodorebond@joblo.com.
Aquaman And The Lost Kingdom by Bartos Gyorgy
The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey by Ian Permana
Léon by Raman Joldoshbek
Napoleon by Ludo D.Rodriguez-pascal
Oppenheimer by Wagner Diesel
Pokémon by...
Aquaman And The Lost Kingdom by Bartos Gyorgy
The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey by Ian Permana
Léon by Raman Joldoshbek
Napoleon by Ludo D.Rodriguez-pascal
Oppenheimer by Wagner Diesel
Pokémon by...
- 12/30/2023
- by Theodore Bond
- JoBlo.com
New CEO and projects to be announced in 2024 as group restructures, ramps up audiovisual production.
EuropaCorp CEO Axel Duroux has resigned from his position and company founder and former CEO Luc Besson will step into the role as interim for a limited period, effective immediately, according to a group statement on Thursday (December 14).
The shake-up is part of the group’s desire to restructure and ramp up its film and audiovisual production. Duroux replaced Besson in the position in September 2020 and signed on for a four-year term that was mandated to end in September 2024.
A spokesperson for EuropaCorp told Screen...
EuropaCorp CEO Axel Duroux has resigned from his position and company founder and former CEO Luc Besson will step into the role as interim for a limited period, effective immediately, according to a group statement on Thursday (December 14).
The shake-up is part of the group’s desire to restructure and ramp up its film and audiovisual production. Duroux replaced Besson in the position in September 2020 and signed on for a four-year term that was mandated to end in September 2024.
A spokesperson for EuropaCorp told Screen...
- 12/14/2023
- by Rebecca Leffler
- ScreenDaily
Natalie Portman is sharing her opinion on child actors in Hollywood.
The 42-year-old Black Swan star began her journey in the industry when she was 13 years old, making her feature film debut in 1994′s Léon: The Professional.
Over the next few years, Natalie appeared in movies such as Heat, Beautiful Girls, and Mars Attacks!, and was just 18 when Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace hit theaters in 1999.
Keep reading to find out more…
While promoting her new movie May December, Natalie spoke with Variety about the current state of Hollywood, including the role of child actors.
“I would not encourage young people to go into this. I don’t mean ever; I mean as children,” the Oscar-winner said. “I feel it was almost an accident of luck that I was not harmed, also combined with very overprotective, wonderful parents. You don’t like it when you’re a kid,...
The 42-year-old Black Swan star began her journey in the industry when she was 13 years old, making her feature film debut in 1994′s Léon: The Professional.
Over the next few years, Natalie appeared in movies such as Heat, Beautiful Girls, and Mars Attacks!, and was just 18 when Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace hit theaters in 1999.
Keep reading to find out more…
While promoting her new movie May December, Natalie spoke with Variety about the current state of Hollywood, including the role of child actors.
“I would not encourage young people to go into this. I don’t mean ever; I mean as children,” the Oscar-winner said. “I feel it was almost an accident of luck that I was not harmed, also combined with very overprotective, wonderful parents. You don’t like it when you’re a kid,...
- 11/27/2023
- by Just Jared
- Just Jared
Actress Natalie Portman doesn’t encourage young people to become child actors. The ‘Black Swan’ star, 42, launched her career at age 12 when she starred in the action film ‘Leon: The Professional’ in 1994.
She admitted that it’s only down to “luck” and having “overprotective parents” that she wasn’t “harmed”, reports ‘Female First UK’.
She told Variety: “I would not encourage young people to go into this. “I don’t mean ever; I mean as children. I feel it was almost an accident of luck that I was not harmed, also combined with very overprotective, wonderful parents.”
The ‘Thor: Love and Thunder’ star is hopeful that the industry is looking after young performers better these days. She said: “I’ve heard too many bad stories to think that any children should be part of it. Having said that, I know all the conversations that we’ve been having these past few years.
She admitted that it’s only down to “luck” and having “overprotective parents” that she wasn’t “harmed”, reports ‘Female First UK’.
She told Variety: “I would not encourage young people to go into this. “I don’t mean ever; I mean as children. I feel it was almost an accident of luck that I was not harmed, also combined with very overprotective, wonderful parents.”
The ‘Thor: Love and Thunder’ star is hopeful that the industry is looking after young performers better these days. She said: “I’ve heard too many bad stories to think that any children should be part of it. Having said that, I know all the conversations that we’ve been having these past few years.
- 11/26/2023
- by Agency News Desk
Actress Natalie Portman doesn’t encourage young people to become child actors. The ‘Black Swan’ star, 42, launched her career at age 12 when she starred in the action film ‘Leon: The Professional’ in 1994.
She admitted that it’s only down to “luck” and having “overprotective parents” that she wasn’t “harmed”, reports ‘Female First UK’.
She told Variety: “I would not encourage young people to go into this. “I don’t mean ever; I mean as children. I feel it was almost an accident of luck that I was not harmed, also combined with very overprotective, wonderful parents.”
The ‘Thor: Love and Thunder’ star is hopeful that the industry is looking after young performers better these days. She said: “I’ve heard too many bad stories to think that any children should be part of it. Having said that, I know all the conversations that we’ve been having these past few years.
She admitted that it’s only down to “luck” and having “overprotective parents” that she wasn’t “harmed”, reports ‘Female First UK’.
She told Variety: “I would not encourage young people to go into this. “I don’t mean ever; I mean as children. I feel it was almost an accident of luck that I was not harmed, also combined with very overprotective, wonderful parents.”
The ‘Thor: Love and Thunder’ star is hopeful that the industry is looking after young performers better these days. She said: “I’ve heard too many bad stories to think that any children should be part of it. Having said that, I know all the conversations that we’ve been having these past few years.
- 11/26/2023
- by Agency News Desk
- GlamSham
A24 has confirmed that they’re re-teaming with Halina Reijn, the director of their slasher satire Bodies Bodies Bodies, on a erotic thriller called Babygirl – and an impressive cast has already been assembled for the film. Here’s the line-up: Nicole Kidman (Being the Ricardos), Antonio Banderas (Desperado), Harris Dickinson (The Iron Claw), Sophie Wilde (Talk to Me), and Jean Reno (Léon: The Professional).
According to Deadline, Reijn will be working from a screenplay she wrote herself. The story she crafted for this one centers on a successful CEO who begins an illicit affair with her much younger intern. Given the “thriller” part of the “erotic thriller” description, we have to assume that this affair goes terribly wrong in some way… probably in a way that involves more than just hurt feelings.
Reijn is producing Babygirl for Man Up Film, alongside A24 and David Hinojosa of 2Am. Julia Oh, Zach Nutman,...
According to Deadline, Reijn will be working from a screenplay she wrote herself. The story she crafted for this one centers on a successful CEO who begins an illicit affair with her much younger intern. Given the “thriller” part of the “erotic thriller” description, we have to assume that this affair goes terribly wrong in some way… probably in a way that involves more than just hurt feelings.
Reijn is producing Babygirl for Man Up Film, alongside A24 and David Hinojosa of 2Am. Julia Oh, Zach Nutman,...
- 11/22/2023
- by Cody Hamman
- JoBlo.com
After a period of speculation prolonged by the double strike, A24 has officially confirmed the cast set for its erotic thriller Babygirl, marking a reteam with Bodies Bodies Bodies helmer Halina Reijn. Nicole Kidman (The Undoing), Antonio Banderas (Pain and Glory) and Harris Dickinson (The Iron Claw) lead an ensemble that also includes Talk to Me‘s Sophie Wilde and Jean Reno (Léon: The Professional).
In the film written and directed by Reijn, a successful CEO begins an illicit affair with her much younger intern. David Hinojosa of 2Am will produce alongside Reijn of Man Up Film and A24, which is financing the project. Julia Oh, Zach Nutman and Christine D’Souza Gelb of 2Am will serve as exec producers.
Reijn comes to make Babygirl with A24 after collaborating with the studio on her critically acclaimed satirical slasher Bodies Bodies Bodies, which world premiered out of SXSW. She previously saw her 2019 directorial debut Instinct,...
In the film written and directed by Reijn, a successful CEO begins an illicit affair with her much younger intern. David Hinojosa of 2Am will produce alongside Reijn of Man Up Film and A24, which is financing the project. Julia Oh, Zach Nutman and Christine D’Souza Gelb of 2Am will serve as exec producers.
Reijn comes to make Babygirl with A24 after collaborating with the studio on her critically acclaimed satirical slasher Bodies Bodies Bodies, which world premiered out of SXSW. She previously saw her 2019 directorial debut Instinct,...
- 11/21/2023
- by Matt Grobar and Andreas Wiseman
- Deadline Film + TV
Fast-emerging Mexican auteur, delivering knowing and cross.grained takes on life in Mixtec communities, actress-turned-director Angeles Cruz’s “Valentina or the Serenity” walked off Saturday night with the top best picture award and best actress (Myriam Bravo) in a high-caliber main competition at this year’s Huelva Ibero-American Film Festival.
Best actor went to “Money Heist’s” Rodolfo de la Serna, for his weighty turn in Paramount Television Intl. Studios’ “The Rescue.”
The Rescue
Cruz’s win underscored the focus and value of Huelva. Despite funding challenges, Latin America’s big three – Mexico, Brazil and Argentina – alone produced 660 features in 2022. It is simply impossible for the media to pay sufficient attention to all but a highly select clutch of top titles.
“Ibero-American cinema is constantly evolving. Now, it is very easy to find great films, if not in budgetary terms, then in artistic ambitions,” Huelva director Manuel H. Martin told...
Best actor went to “Money Heist’s” Rodolfo de la Serna, for his weighty turn in Paramount Television Intl. Studios’ “The Rescue.”
The Rescue
Cruz’s win underscored the focus and value of Huelva. Despite funding challenges, Latin America’s big three – Mexico, Brazil and Argentina – alone produced 660 features in 2022. It is simply impossible for the media to pay sufficient attention to all but a highly select clutch of top titles.
“Ibero-American cinema is constantly evolving. Now, it is very easy to find great films, if not in budgetary terms, then in artistic ambitions,” Huelva director Manuel H. Martin told...
- 11/19/2023
- by John Hopewell and Pablo Sandoval
- Variety Film + TV
If David Fincher’s meticulously stylized film about a cold-blooded killer is something you appreciate, then the auteur’s other works are probably already on your favorite list. On the other hand, if it’s something you just happened upon and you’re now desperate for some crime thrillers that are gripping and process-driven, then this list is for you. An immersive experience with dark and hollow characters, this list contains the perfect follow-up to Fincher’s latest, with just as gritty characters and more thrill and excitement.
Spoilers Ahead
American Psycho
A film based on a book about a psychopath whose morning routine would be of interest to any Gen Z influencer, American Psycho is a journey, to say the least. Starring Christian Bale as said psychopath, Patrick Bateman, this film will keep you thinking for hours after it’s finished. From the pristine white rooms to his taste in music,...
Spoilers Ahead
American Psycho
A film based on a book about a psychopath whose morning routine would be of interest to any Gen Z influencer, American Psycho is a journey, to say the least. Starring Christian Bale as said psychopath, Patrick Bateman, this film will keep you thinking for hours after it’s finished. From the pristine white rooms to his taste in music,...
- 11/10/2023
- by Ruchika Bhat
- Film Fugitives
Ballerina is a Korean action film written and directed by Lee Chung-hyun. The Netflix film follows the story of Ok-ju, an ex-bodyguard who is on a quest to fulfill her friend’s last wish: revenge. Ballerina is action-packed with some really heavy moments that are played to perfection by Jeon Jong-seo. So, if you loved the Netflix film here are some similar movies you could watch next.
Lady Vengeance
Synopsis: After being wrongfully convicted, a woman is imprisoned for 13 years and forced to give up her daughter. While in prison she gains the respect of her cellmates and plots her revenge on the man responsible. Once released, she begins her elaborate plan of retribution, but discovers a horrifying truth.
Kill Bill: Volume 1 (Rent on Prime Video) Credit – Miramax Films
Synopsis: The acclaimed fourth film from groundbreaking writer and director Quentin Tarantino, Kill Bill Volume 1 stars Uma Thurman (Pulp Fiction), Lucy Liu,...
Lady Vengeance
Synopsis: After being wrongfully convicted, a woman is imprisoned for 13 years and forced to give up her daughter. While in prison she gains the respect of her cellmates and plots her revenge on the man responsible. Once released, she begins her elaborate plan of retribution, but discovers a horrifying truth.
Kill Bill: Volume 1 (Rent on Prime Video) Credit – Miramax Films
Synopsis: The acclaimed fourth film from groundbreaking writer and director Quentin Tarantino, Kill Bill Volume 1 stars Uma Thurman (Pulp Fiction), Lucy Liu,...
- 10/7/2023
- by Kulwant Singh
- Cinema Blind
Speaking at the press conference announcing the Monterrey Film Festival’s 2023 edition, Lorena Villarreal, the festival’s president of the board, hailed the event’s ambitions for its @Nuevo León industry section, “which will undoubtedly be an important hub connecting Mexican and global cinema,” she said.
With newly hired Diana Cadavid, a seasoned programmer at TIFF and artistic director-programmer of the Laliff and Cali film festivals managing the section, Ficmonterrey has signaled its intent to become a new, unmissable appointment for the international entertainment industry.
This year’s edition will include over 15 industry events, encompassing panels, masterclasses, workshops, and conversations with prominent industry professionals. The plans for next year will include Works in Progress and Screenwriting Labs, says Cadavid.
@Nuevo León industry will present four programming tracks: The Voices of Female Directors with its guest country, Korea; In Conversation With…; Panoramas: Industry Encounters and Visions Nuevo León.
The Voices of...
With newly hired Diana Cadavid, a seasoned programmer at TIFF and artistic director-programmer of the Laliff and Cali film festivals managing the section, Ficmonterrey has signaled its intent to become a new, unmissable appointment for the international entertainment industry.
This year’s edition will include over 15 industry events, encompassing panels, masterclasses, workshops, and conversations with prominent industry professionals. The plans for next year will include Works in Progress and Screenwriting Labs, says Cadavid.
@Nuevo León industry will present four programming tracks: The Voices of Female Directors with its guest country, Korea; In Conversation With…; Panoramas: Industry Encounters and Visions Nuevo León.
The Voices of...
- 9/25/2023
- by Anna Marie de la Fuente
- Variety Film + TV
Natalie Portman may be an outspoken feminist and co-founder of a female-driven soccer club (Angel City Fc), but she isn’t a believer in the so-called “female gaze.”
In an interview with Vanity Fair France for the magazine’s 10-year anniversary issue, conducted prior to the SAG-AFTRA strike, Portman argued that “to say that a female director has a particular gaze is reductive of women’s individuality and points of view.”
The Harvard-educated actor also said that gender isn’t a factor when she chooses projects. “Female directors should have the same opportunities as their male counterparts. But the experience of working with a director has to do with the individual and it doesn’t relate to gender,” Portman said.
Portman, who recently relocated to Paris with her husband Benjamin Millepied and their two children, also discussed her upcoming project “May December,” directed by Todd Haynes.
In...
In an interview with Vanity Fair France for the magazine’s 10-year anniversary issue, conducted prior to the SAG-AFTRA strike, Portman argued that “to say that a female director has a particular gaze is reductive of women’s individuality and points of view.”
The Harvard-educated actor also said that gender isn’t a factor when she chooses projects. “Female directors should have the same opportunities as their male counterparts. But the experience of working with a director has to do with the individual and it doesn’t relate to gender,” Portman said.
Portman, who recently relocated to Paris with her husband Benjamin Millepied and their two children, also discussed her upcoming project “May December,” directed by Todd Haynes.
In...
- 9/14/2023
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
“Judge the art, not the artist.” That is the mantra we hear each and every time someone in the entertainment world is accused of heinous behavior, and it’s one that was repeated by artistic director Alberto Barbera prior to this year’s Venice Film Festival.
In an interview with The Guardian, Barbera discussed his decision to include films by Roman Polanski, Woody Allen, and Luc Besson in the 2023 festival program — Polanski’s The Palace, a class comedy about a dinner party at a luxury Swiss hotel on the eve...
In an interview with The Guardian, Barbera discussed his decision to include films by Roman Polanski, Woody Allen, and Luc Besson in the 2023 festival program — Polanski’s The Palace, a class comedy about a dinner party at a luxury Swiss hotel on the eve...
- 9/5/2023
- by Marlow Stern
- Rollingstone.com
Too bombastic for the French establishment and too idiosyncratic to ever go full Hollywood, Luc Besson once charted an impressive middle ground on the international scene.
At his 1990s peak, the action auteur riffed and danced around the blockbuster formula, delivering genre potboilers so perverse (in the case of 1994’s “Leon: The Professional”) or uncanny (as with 1997’s “The Fifth Element”) as to stand noticeably apart from your standard studio offering and, in the process, Besson built for himself an empire. Beset with legal and financial problems the French director’s star has dimmed in the past decade, but his hunger clearly has not.
Which brings us to “Dogman.” Premiering in competition at the Venice Film Festival, the project marks a splashy comeback of sorts for the beleaguered filmmaker, just recently acquitted of sexual assault charges, and an impassioned argument that his erstwhile model still has some juice. That could very well be the case,...
At his 1990s peak, the action auteur riffed and danced around the blockbuster formula, delivering genre potboilers so perverse (in the case of 1994’s “Leon: The Professional”) or uncanny (as with 1997’s “The Fifth Element”) as to stand noticeably apart from your standard studio offering and, in the process, Besson built for himself an empire. Beset with legal and financial problems the French director’s star has dimmed in the past decade, but his hunger clearly has not.
Which brings us to “Dogman.” Premiering in competition at the Venice Film Festival, the project marks a splashy comeback of sorts for the beleaguered filmmaker, just recently acquitted of sexual assault charges, and an impassioned argument that his erstwhile model still has some juice. That could very well be the case,...
- 8/31/2023
- by Ben Croll
- The Wrap
Release the hounds!! One of my favorite films from the first half of the 2023 Venice Film Festival so far is DogMan, the latest original film from French filmmaker Luc Besson. After initially being planned for release earlier in the year, buzz from buyers at the EFM in early 2023 made them hold it until the fall. Now it's playing in the Main Competition in Venice, with a release set for the fall. It's worth the wait! DogMan is a triumphant vengeance movie with a traditional narrative structure that provides just the right amount of entertainment value. It's a tad cheesy, doesn't try to reinvent or rethink anything, yet it is an engaging story of a boy who grows up to become a vigilante. Of course, as a dog lover, I usually love every movie involving dogs - and this is a major one. There are so many dogs in it, so...
- 8/31/2023
- by Alex Billington
- firstshowing.net
“Dogman” director Luc Besson might be a newcomer to Venice, but following his film’s warm reception on Thursday, he’s likely to come back.
Though Besson’s Golden Lion contender polarized critics, with Variety’s Jessica Kiang sparing few words by calling it a “numbskulled nonsense movie,” audience members at the film’s gala premiere opted to spread the love at its world premiere, showering the film and filmmakers with six minutes of sustained applause. That tied the six-minute ovation Venice audiences gave Michael Mann’s “Ferrari” earlier in the evening on the second night of the prestigious festival.
If Besson offered no closing thoughts, the director nevertheless appeared visibly moved, beaming under the spotlight and embracing his cast with bear hugs. Besson shared a particularly tender moment with star Caleb Landry Jones, with whom he developed and honed the central role over the course of a full year before the cameras ever rolled.
Though Besson’s Golden Lion contender polarized critics, with Variety’s Jessica Kiang sparing few words by calling it a “numbskulled nonsense movie,” audience members at the film’s gala premiere opted to spread the love at its world premiere, showering the film and filmmakers with six minutes of sustained applause. That tied the six-minute ovation Venice audiences gave Michael Mann’s “Ferrari” earlier in the evening on the second night of the prestigious festival.
If Besson offered no closing thoughts, the director nevertheless appeared visibly moved, beaming under the spotlight and embracing his cast with bear hugs. Besson shared a particularly tender moment with star Caleb Landry Jones, with whom he developed and honed the central role over the course of a full year before the cameras ever rolled.
- 8/31/2023
- by Ben Croll, Ellise Shafer and Zack Sharf
- Variety Film + TV
No animals were harmed in the making of Luc Besson’s new thriller, Dogman, but plenty of people get mauled, bitten, robbed and attacked, and one guy has his junk put into a serious vice grip, by a pack of extremely well-trained canines.
That being said, the director’s first film since his 2019 femme-driven assasin flick, Anna, is actually one of his least violent movies to date when it comes to bullets and bodies depicted on screen. If there’s violence, it’s predominantly of the domestic and psychological kind, in a story that follows a young man whose childhood traumas transform him into a very unusual sort of superhero: a paralyzed vigilante who dresses in drag, performs incredible lip-syncs of classic European ballads, and rules over a small, fierce army of obedient pups, as if the Joker and Ace Ventura were somehow merged into a single character. Also, he lives in New Jersey.
That being said, the director’s first film since his 2019 femme-driven assasin flick, Anna, is actually one of his least violent movies to date when it comes to bullets and bodies depicted on screen. If there’s violence, it’s predominantly of the domestic and psychological kind, in a story that follows a young man whose childhood traumas transform him into a very unusual sort of superhero: a paralyzed vigilante who dresses in drag, performs incredible lip-syncs of classic European ballads, and rules over a small, fierce army of obedient pups, as if the Joker and Ace Ventura were somehow merged into a single character. Also, he lives in New Jersey.
- 8/31/2023
- by Jordan Mintzer
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Editor’s Note: This review was originally published at the 2023 Venice Film Festival. Briarcliff Entertainment will release “Dogman” in select theaters on Friday, March 15 before expanding on March 22.
Caleb Landry Jones graduates from menacing oddball character actor to sympathetic show-stopping lead in Luc Besson’s “Dogman.” But the French genre filmmaker’s first feature effort since 2019 assassin thriller “Anna” — and his second since 2017’s catastrophic space opera “Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets” — unfortunately doesn’t deliver the goods to match Landry Jones’ giddily unrestrained turn as a traumatized dog collector turned drag cabaret act turned … well-heeled shooter and avenger of capitalist greed and domestic abuse?
That’s nothing against the 33-year-old American actor’s Method-level dedication to the role. Landry Jones has stamped himself as indie film’s consummate weirdo, playing charmingly raffish outsiders or scary psychos. His Douglas in “Dogman” is a little bit of both,...
Caleb Landry Jones graduates from menacing oddball character actor to sympathetic show-stopping lead in Luc Besson’s “Dogman.” But the French genre filmmaker’s first feature effort since 2019 assassin thriller “Anna” — and his second since 2017’s catastrophic space opera “Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets” — unfortunately doesn’t deliver the goods to match Landry Jones’ giddily unrestrained turn as a traumatized dog collector turned drag cabaret act turned … well-heeled shooter and avenger of capitalist greed and domestic abuse?
That’s nothing against the 33-year-old American actor’s Method-level dedication to the role. Landry Jones has stamped himself as indie film’s consummate weirdo, playing charmingly raffish outsiders or scary psychos. His Douglas in “Dogman” is a little bit of both,...
- 8/31/2023
- by Ryan Lattanzio
- Indiewire
Ahead of its Locarno Festival world premiere, sales agent Outplay Films (“León”) has dropped an international trailer and poster for coming-of-age drama “Rivière,” an earnest take on adolescence and the way youth negotiates trauma.
“Riviére,” the debut feature of Hugues Hariche, will bow in the Festival’s Cineasti del Presente strand which highlights first and second feature-film debuts from emerging directors, sometimes uncovering exceptional talent. It follows Manon (Flavie Delangle), 17, as she abruptly returns to her hometown of Belfort, France in an attempt to reconcile with her estranged father. Near-orphaned by circumstance, she blends effortlessly into the scenery, taking up with local teens at the neighborhood ice rink. They maneuver their traumas with nuance while hockey and figure-skating act as vehicles that portray the script’s tensions, never the film’s primary focus.
Manon is determined to make it as a professional ice hockey player.
“I love sports, but I...
“Riviére,” the debut feature of Hugues Hariche, will bow in the Festival’s Cineasti del Presente strand which highlights first and second feature-film debuts from emerging directors, sometimes uncovering exceptional talent. It follows Manon (Flavie Delangle), 17, as she abruptly returns to her hometown of Belfort, France in an attempt to reconcile with her estranged father. Near-orphaned by circumstance, she blends effortlessly into the scenery, taking up with local teens at the neighborhood ice rink. They maneuver their traumas with nuance while hockey and figure-skating act as vehicles that portray the script’s tensions, never the film’s primary focus.
Manon is determined to make it as a professional ice hockey player.
“I love sports, but I...
- 7/28/2023
- by Holly Jones
- Variety Film + TV
A couple weeks ago, we got our hands on the trailer for Dogman, the latest film from Luc Besson – whose previous credits include The Big Blue, La Femme Nikita, Leon: The Professional, The Fifth Element, The Family, Lucy, and Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets. Besson’s most recent film was the 2019 assassin thriller Anna. Dogman will be having its world premiere at the Venice International Film Festival (which is set to run from August 30th through September 9th), and is set to receive a theatrical release in France on September 27th. With those dates drawing near, a poster for the film has arrived online, and you can check it out at the bottom of this article.
Dogman is described as being the incredible story of a child, bruised by life, who finds his salvation through the love of his dogs. According to Deadline, the Dogman himself is...
Dogman is described as being the incredible story of a child, bruised by life, who finds his salvation through the love of his dogs. According to Deadline, the Dogman himself is...
- 7/26/2023
- by Cody Hamman
- JoBlo.com
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